Meanwhile, McIlroy, 25, the champion North Irish golfer, held back tears at a PGA event southwest of London, telling the press that he was struggling but never considered backing out of the tournament.

"Look, I'm no different than anyone else," he said, according to the Irish Independent. "Everyone has been through break-ups, and it obviously has been very, very difficult."

"There's no good time to sort of end a relationship, I guess. I made a commitment to be here at the European Tour's flagship event … once I gave my word that I would play, I wasn't going to back out on it."

McIlroy dramatically called off his engagement to Wozniacki earlier this week, saying he had gotten cold feet once the invitations were sent out and adding that he wasn't ready for all that marriage entails.

The couple were expected to get hitched in New York in the fall after the Ryder Cup, and neither can avoid the public gaze. Injury permitting, Wozniacki may be seen on court at the French Open next week.

It's a hard time for me right now.Thanks for all the sweet messages!Happy I support Liverpool right now because I know I'll never walk alone